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April 25, 2016

Grant McKinley Phipps Jr. aka Mac Clemency (Change.ORG Petition)

Dear Governor John Bel Edwards,

We the undersigned support clemency for McKinley Phipps. We believe that the unique facts of his case, his record as an inmate, and his potential to contribute to society in meaningful ways if released make him an ideal candidate for clemency. A promising recording artist, Mr. Phipps had a clean criminal record before he was charged in the shooting of a young man at a concert in 2000. Mr. Phipps was ultimately convicted of manslaughter, despite questionable witnesses and a lack of physical evidence, and sentenced to 30 years in prison.

Mr. Phipps case has received widespread media attention in recent years. Numerous articles have been written about it. We respectfully invite you to read the in-depth series about him at www.huffingtonpost.com/news/mckinley-phipps. During Mr. Phipps 16-year incarceration he has been a model inmate. He has served as head of the music program at Elayn Hunt Correctional Center and recently participated in the cleanup effort after deadly tornadoes ripped through southern Louisiana. Mr. Phipps has been the recipient of numerous awards, including a humanitarian award, and he routinely counsels other inmates.

It is our belief that regardless of what led to Mr. Phipps’ conviction, he has potential to succeed if released and will again become an asset to society. For these reasons, we hope that you will give serious consideration to granting Mr. Phipps’ clemency. Your kind consideration in this matter is greatly appreciated.